The highly anticipated FY 2026 H-1B visa lottery results are rolling in, and thousands of foreign professionals are anxiously monitoring their USCIS accounts for updates. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has begun notifying applicants of their selection status in phases, as confirmed by Richards and Jurusik Immigration Law.
Applicants who have registered should check their status using the USCIS online portal, through their sponsoring employer, or via their legal representative. Since the results are being released gradually, those who haven’t received an update yet should continue monitoring their accounts closely.
How to Identify Your USCIS Status
Once logged into your USCIS account, you may encounter one of the following statuses:
- Submitted: Your application remains in the pool, and if additional selections are required, you may still be chosen.
- Selected: Congratulations! You are now eligible to file an H-1B visa cap-subject petition starting April 1, 2025.
- Not Selected: Unfortunately, you were not chosen this year, but alternative options like Day 1 CPT, employer-sponsored green cards, or reapplying next year may be viable.
- Denied – Duplicate Registration: USCIS has disqualified your entry due to multiple registrations from the same employer.
- Invalidated – Failed Payment: Your registration was canceled due to an unsuccessful payment.
- Deleted: Your registration is no longer under consideration.
- Processing Submission: Your registration is still under review.
Next Steps for Those Selected in the H-1B Visa Lottery
Securing a ‘Selected’ status is just the first step in the journey. Employers must now take swift action to file an H-1B visa petition with USCIS between April 1 and June 30, 2025.
Here’s what needs to be done:
- Complete Form I-129: Ensure you use the latest FY 2026 edition of the petition form.
- Pay the Correct Fees: New USCIS filing fees go into effect on April 1, 2025. Verify the updated amounts before submission.
- Submit to the Correct Lockbox Facility: USCIS no longer accepts paper petitions at service centers; ensure submission to the right lockbox.
- Double-Check All Details: Small errors, such as incorrect fee amounts or mailing addresses, can lead to rejection.
What If You’re Not Selected? Exploring Alternative Options
For those not selected in the FY 2026 H-1B visa lottery, other pathways remain open for staying in the U.S. legally:
- Day 1 CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Allows students to work while pursuing advanced studies.
- Employer-Sponsored Green Cards: Some employers may be willing to sponsor a permanent residency application.
- Alternative Visa Categories: Other work visas, such as L-1, O-1, or TN visas, could be viable depending on qualifications.
Consulting with an immigration attorney is essential to determine the best course of action based on individual circumstances.
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